A Systematic Review on the Psychological Impact of Manipulative Parenting on children in the Indian Sociocultural Context

Abstract

Manipulative parenting, though often camouflaged as concern, discipline, or moral upbringing in Indian households, can have profound and lasting psychological effects on children and young adults. This systematic review critically explores the covert emotional tactics used by parents—such as gaslighting, guilt-tripping, conditional affection, emotional blackmail, and forced comparison—that are frequently normalized within the Indian sociocultural framework. While such behaviours may appear benign or culturally appropriate, they contribute significantly to the erosion of a child’s emotional well-being, identity development, and autonomy. This review synthesizes findings from 27 peer-reviewed empirical studies published between 2000 and 2024, drawing from both global and Indian contexts, to analyze the psychological consequences of manipulative parenting. The research reveals consistent associations between manipulative parenting and outcomes such as low self-esteem, emotional confusion, boundary issues, attachment insecurity, and difficulties in interpersonal relationships during adulthood. The study also highlights the cultural mechanisms like reverence for elders, emphasis on obedience, and lack of emotional literacy that sustain and legitimize emotional manipulation, making it difficult for victims to recognize or challenge the abuse. The impact of such parenting is often internalized, leading to a cycle of emotional suppression, self-blame, and delayed psychological healing. The review underscores the urgent need for culturally sensitive therapeutic interventions, emotional education, and family counselling practices that acknowledge covert emotional abuse. By challenging the normalization of manipulative parenting in Indian society, this review advocates for a shift toward healthier parent-child relationships grounded in empathy, respect, and emotional validation.